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Kluwe says he was cut for supporting gay rights

Former Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe alleged in an article Thursday that he lost his job because of his outspoken public support of same-sex marriage.

The Vikings issued a statement Thursday, saying Kluwe's release in 2012 was based on his football performance, but the organization would review Kluwe's allegations.

Kluwe, writing for Deadspin in an article titled, "I Was An NFL Player Until I Was Fired By Two Cowards And A Bigot," blames former coach Leslie Frazier, general manager Rick Spielman and special teams coach Mike Priefer. Kluwe also writes that he wants to make sure Priefer never gets another coaching job again.

Reached by ESPN.com, Kluwe said that he didn't approach the team, the NFL or the NFLPA about the comments at the time because doing so is "something that ends careers."

Kluwe said in the article that Priefer criticized the punter throughout the season for his support of same-sex marriage.

Frazier, who was fired Monday, and Priefer did not immediately return a phone call and text message seeking comment from ESPN.

Kluwe was released by the Vikings last May. He has yet to find another job.

The Vikings released a statement Thursday after Kluwe's accusations became a national story:

"The Minnesota Vikings were made aware of Chris Kluwe's allegations for the first time today. We take them very seriously and will thoroughly review this matter.

"As an organization, the Vikings consistently strive to create a supportive, respectful and accepting environment for all of our players, coaches and front office personnel. We do not tolerate discrimination at any level.

"The team has long respected our players' and associates' individual rights, and, as Chris specifically stated, Vikings ownership supports and promotes tolerance, including on the subject of marriage equality. Because he was identified with the Vikings, Chris was asked to be respectful while expressing his opinions. Team ownership and management also repeatedly emphasized to Chris that the Vikings would not impinge on his right to express his views.

"Any notion that Chris was released from our football team due to his stance on marriage equality is entirely inaccurate and inconsistent with team policy. Chris was released strictly based on his football performance.